Massenet: Les amoureuses sont des folles

Dive into the enchanting world of French melodie with Jules Massenet's "Les amoureuses sont des folles," a captivating collection of songs that showcase the composer's intimate and expressive style. Released in 2016 by SOMM Recordings, this album features the exquisite soprano Sally Silver accompanied by the masterful pianist Richard Bonynge, delivering a performance that is as delicate as it is powerful.

Spanning nearly an hour, the album presents a selection of Massenet's lesser-known solo vocal works, offering a unique perspective on the composer's artistry. The pieces range from tender love songs to poignant reflections on life and love, each one a testament to Massenet's gift for crafting memorable melodies and evocative harmonies.

Highlights include the title track, "Les amoureuses sont des folles," a whimsical exploration of the follies of love, and "Poème d'avril," a beautiful setting of a poem by Paul Verlaine. Other standout tracks include "Je t'aime!" a passionate declaration of love, and "Tout passe!" a poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of life.

Throughout the album, Silver's voice shines, her clear, expressive tone bringing Massenet's music to life. Bonynge's accompaniment is equally impressive, his sensitive playing providing the perfect backdrop for Silver's vocals.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Massenet's music or a newcomer to his work, "Les amoureuses sont des folles" is sure to delight. So, sit back, relax, and let the enchanting melodies of Jules Massenet transport you to another time and place.

Jules Massenet, born in 1842, was a titan of French opera, crafting over thirty works for the stage that continue to captivate audiences today. His melodic genius and theatrical flair made him the leading operatic composer of his time, with masterpieces like "Manon," "Werther," and "Thaïs" standing as testaments to his enduring appeal. Massenet's music is renowned for its lyricism, sensuality, and emotional depth, drawing influences from the likes of Berlioz and Wagner. Beyond his operatic achievements, Massenet also composed oratorios, ballets, and orchestral works, leaving an indelible mark on the Romantic era. His legacy as a professor at the Paris Conservatoire and a member of the Académie des Beaux-Arts further cemented his status as a pillar of French musical culture. Massenet's compositions, marked by their rich harmonies and vivid orchestration, offer a journey through the heights of human emotion, making him a composer whose works continue to enchant and inspire.